Quality Protein Bars

01/14/2015

Choose a quality protein bar to replace a snack or meal. For snacks, choose under 200 calories and for meal replacement, choose protein bars with greater than 200 calories. Read labels to determine the protein, sugar, and fat calories. Next, read the ingredients to see just where these calories are coming from. For a really healthy protein bar, think “the less ingredients, the better”. With fewer ingredients, there is usually less sugar and more real ingredients like nuts, fruit, and whey protein, which is better source of protein.

Also, protein should be about half the number of carbohydrates in a bar. For example, if there are 20 grams of carbohydrates, there should be approximately 10 grams of protein, and should contain less than 7 grams of sugar. Too much sugar contributes to weight gain and a protein bar with a lot of sugar can end up being more like a candy bar! Lastly, be sure to check out the fiber content. A good bar will have at least a few grams of fiber, which can help consumers feel full, due to fiber slowing the digestion process. Some of my favorites are the Kind Blueberry Pecan + Fiber Bars, Lara Uber Bars, and Health Warrior Chia Bars.

Nutrition Tips Provided By:

Carolyn Bell, RDN

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